Augmented reality on the rise as Poplar raises $2.1 million

Augmented reality startup Poplar has closed a $2.1 million seed investment round led by Fuel Ventures.

This also involved Haatch Ventures, Ascension Ventures and Super Ventures. The venture has now raised $2.9 million in total funding as it looks to grow the business and further develop its tech.

Poplar’s platform automatically assembles teams of AR and 3D creators to build immersive digital experiences, such as at home virtual try-ons, branded face filters, product visualisation, for retail, fashion and beauty, entertainment, food and drink and gaming brands.

More than 120 campaigns have so far been delivered for the likes of Speedo, Universal Music, L’Oréal, Disney, Jack Daniels and Nestlé. David Ripert, Co-founder and CEO, Poplar, pictured above, says: “With Covid-19 dominating our lives, brands are turning more to digital and social channels to reach consumers in new, immersive ways.”

“Augmented reality is central to that and success will be determined by the quality of the experience. We are growing our platform to bring the very best AR creators together to quickly deliver premium campaigns, without the huge price tag.”

“With 75% of consumers expecting retailers to offer an AR experience and 11 times more likely to make a purchase when AR is available, retail is definitely leading the way in terms of adoption. We expect more industries will follow suit, particularly with the challenges that social isolation is posing to every industry.”

Mark Pearson, Founder and Managing Partner at Fuel Ventures, comments: “Augmented reality has been on the rise but now, as a result of the pandemic lockdown, is its time to shine. I believe it represents the future of commerce - from being able to see a car in 3D without being in a showroom to trying on clothes in virtual changing rooms.”

“Poplar sees the future of content creation in this medium and I am excited we are onboard to help its journey to making AR technology more accessible, as the technology grows further in popularity.”